Shrub Roses For Carefree Beauty

The name Shrub Rose is somewhat confusing, because a rose -- any rose, in fact -- is actually a shrub. Most varieties of roses can be considered shrub roses, including hybrids, modern roses, old garden roses, and even miniature roses.

The term "shrub" refers to the appearance of the plant, which the dictionary defines as, "A low, several-stemmed, woody plant." Shrub roses are an easy, colorful choice to use anywhere you would plant a shrub.

Privacy Screen or Hedge

Shrub roses can be used as a screen or hedge plant for privacy, as a border, in the background, and any other way you can think to show off this bountiful bush. Although the flowers from Shrub Roses carry little fragrance, they come in a wide assortment of vivid colors. Vibrant pinks, reds, whites, and yellows are all common for a shrub rose's abundant flowers.

Sturdy and "Plant-Friendly"

Unlike many other roses, Shrub Roses are perfect for planting anywhere. They're "plant-friendly" and are good neighbors for any assortment of flowers. Shrub Roses are also very winter-hardy, and they are highly disease-resistant.

These round, easily-maintained bushes are not always small, either. Many older Shrub Roses can grow up to 6 feet in height. If desired, Shrub Roses can be trained to grow like tall hedges.

Ground Cover or Hanging Basket

It's generally the modern shrubs that are much smaller in size. Several modern shrub roses have been popularized in recent years. Ground covers such as Cliffs of Dover, Flower Carpet and Jeepers Creepers have been treasured by homeowners with sloped or uneven lawns.

They also grow wonderfully in hanging baskets and containers. Regardless of the variety you choose, Shrub Roses can be a wonderful feature at the entrance to your garden or home.

How to Plant

Make sure the plant is in a very sunny location. Generally speaking, Shrub Roses require a minimum of 8 hours of full sun on a daily basis. The direct light combined with moist soil will ensure maximum flower production.

If you purchase your shrub rose from a nursery, you'll want to dig a hole that is double the width and depth of the pot your shrub comes in.

Use a sharp instrument to cut the plant away from the sides of the pot. The idea is to disturb the roots as little as possible. Once you have the plant free from its container, place it in the hole. Fill in the remaining space with loose soil and soak the plant with water.

Practically Maintenance-Free

Fortunately, Shrub Roses require very little maintenance. The soil should always be moist. If you live in a climate that receives very little rain during the summer months, you'll want to water your shrubs twice a week.

If you're looking for gorgeous results and optimal growth, use organic fertilizer on your roses in the spring and fall. Pruning is not necessary with this shrub, because it is basically self-cleaning. Shrub roses will release their own dead foliage, creating a neat appearance through every season.

Some of the prettiest roses are "ever blooming." Purchase this type of shrub rose, and you’ll have a recurrent bloomer that will flower profusely several times a year.

Before you plant another green shrub, consider planting a Shrub Rose instead. The most trouble you'll have with this plant is deciding which is the prettiest one to bring home!